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Raleigh-Durham International Airport’s Terminal 2 to Open October 26

Aug 21, 2008

RDU Airport, NC – The Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority today announced RDU’s new Terminal 2 will open on Sunday, October 26. The Airport Authority decided on the date at its monthly meeting today.

The public will be invited to tour the new terminal in the weeks leading up to the opening. The date for the open house will be announced in the coming weeks.

Over the next two months, Airport Authority staff will complete the implementation of the IT infrastructure that is the backbone of the building. This time will be also dedicated to training, the completion of shops and restaurants and the testing of systems and equipment.

Terminal 2 is the airport's first new passenger facility in more than 20 years. The terminal will open in two phases. The second phase will open in Winter 2011.

When phase one of the $570 million terminal opens in October, it will feature:

  • Architectural design that guides passengers from the curb to their gate and reflects the Research Triangle Region's history of crafts, industry and technology
  • Large airline check-in area featuring 40 electronic kiosks. A unique island-style counter design eases congestion in the check-in area.
  • One IT infrastructure over which all airline and tenant voice communication and data are transmitted
    A security checkpoint that features the latest in security screening equipment and checkpoint design
  • More than 25 shops and restaurants, including local and national favorites. Travelers will find specialty retail shops offering high-tech gadgetry, natural soaps, jewelry and more. Dining options include local favorites 42nd St. Oyster Bar and Carolina Ale House, as well as an organic-food market and popular national brands.
  • Nineteen boarding gates
  • New processing area for international travelers that no longer requires travelers to proceed through security screening before exiting the building

Terminal 2 replaces Terminal C, which was built as a hub for American Airlines in 1987. In the mid-1990s, the airport experienced tremendous growth, which coincided with growth in the Research Triangle Region.

Today, nearly 100 percent of RDU's travelers either begin or end their trip at RDU. As a result, Terminal 2 is designed to provide airline check-in, security checkpoint and baggage claim space for the millions of travelers who pass through the airport each year.

While Terminal 2 will meet current passenger demand, it is also an investment in the airport's infrastructure and will allow for future growth and flexibility to meet the changes in the aviation industry.

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